Interpersonal Cycles of Borderline Personality Disorder in Daily Life (1.5 CEs)

Abstract

Recent research has sought to conceptualize personality pathology in terms of affective-interpersonal signatures in daily life. The studies presented in this symposium will extend that work in patients with borderline personality disorder treated in a clinical trial evaluating Transference Focused Psychotherapy (TFP). As part of the clinical trial, patients completed a 14-day ecological momentary assessment (EMA) protocol at baseline in addition to structured interviews and self-report measures. Kevin Meehan will use EMA data to evaluate the affective contexts (e.g., anger, rejection) within which daily maladaptive interpersonal signatures emerge in these patients. Nicole Cain will use the Psychodynamic Diagnostic Manual’s (PDM-2) overall level of personality organization score as a moderator of interpersonal behavior and affect in daily life. Audrey Stephenson will present a clinical case that illustrates the interpersonal patterns of a patient with borderline personality disorder over a 2-week period. Finally, Aaron Pincus will integrate the three presentations, highlighting the implications for understanding BPD as an interpersonal disorder.

Chair

Kevin Meehan | Long Island University-Brooklyn

Discussant

Aaron Pincus | Pennsylvania State University - University Park

Goals & Objectives

1. Describe innovative uses of technology in clinical research.
2. Identify uses of technology by clinicians as it relates to psychotherapy practice.
3. Appraise the pros and cons of the increasing digital presence in clinical and research contexts.